PHYSICOCHEMICAL PROBLEMS OF MINERAL PROCESSING, vol.53, no.1, pp.413-426, 2017 (SCI-Expanded)
The aim of this study was to produce precipitated calcium carbonate (PCC) with different morphologies from dolomite ore (CaMg(CO3)(2)) by means of leaching and carbonation method. The optimal experimental conditions determined in our previous study for the leaching process was conducted. During the leaching process, CO2 released was stored in a lab scale gasometer for the use in the carbonation test. The carbonation test was performed in the presence of Mg2+, Na+ or NH4+ ions added as [OH]-additives. XRD, SEM, FT-IR, brightness and particle size analysis were conducted to determine properties of the PCC. It was determined that the morphology, crystallite and particle size distribution properties of PCC were influenced by the OH-additives. The PCC containing pure aragonite or calcite crystals were produced successfully, depending on the experimental conditions. The necessary carbonation time decreased with the increase of CO2. It was understood from the uniformity coefficient values that the homogeneity of PCC produced in the presence of NH4+ was lower compared to PCC produced in the presence of Mg2+ and Na+. Furthermore, the Mg/Ca ratio in the solution indicated which morphology of PCC could be produced.